2025 Study of Matthew’s Gospel

WOMAN, YOU HAVE GREAT FAITH!

Matthew 15:21-28

Key Verses 15:

1. Where are Tyre and Sidon located geographically, and what kind of cities were they in Jesus’ time (21)? Who came to Jesus, and what do we learn about her identity and problem (22)? What does her plea—“Lord, Son of David”—reveal about her faith compared to many Israelites?
2. Why do you think Jesus remained silent at first (23a)? What does the disciples’ request reveal about their attitude toward her (23b)? What did Jesus mean by saying he was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel, and how does this connect to God’s larger salvation plan (24)?
3. What does the woman’s posture show about her attitude toward Jesus (25)? In what way could Jesus’ response about the children’s bread and the dogs sound offensive to her (26)? Why do you think Jesus answered her in this way?
4. What was her reply, and how did she answer so wisely with humility (27)? What was Jesus’ reaction, and in what way did he see her faith as great (28)? How does this passage challenge us to put aside pride and come to Jesus with a desperate heart?